Buying a used car from a dealership for the first time can be a challenging experience. There are many makes and models to choose from, and you want to get the best deal possible. If you are new to browsing used cars and you aren’t sure where to begin, we have a few tips that might get you on the right path to finding a car that suits both your budget and lifestyle.

Start Small

When you first start looking at dealership websites, it is easy to become overwhelmed by all the different choices, sales and other offers out there. If you want to start your shopping with confidence, start small by considering what type of vehicle would best suit your lifestyle. Make a short list of what you most want out of vehicle, such as mileage, size and which features you desire most. This can narrow down your choices and make shopping used cars easier.

Get Advice from Experienced Buyers

Knowing what to expect when you first approach the car buying process can help you feel less apprehensive about the experience. If you know someone who has purchased a used car in the recent past, ask them about the details, both positive and negative. For example, you can ask which dealerships they visited, which they liked the most and what criteria they used when choosing their new used car. This can make you feel more informed when you first start shopping.

Gather Appropriate Papers

Before you begin browsing dealerships, it’s a good idea to have important papers and information prepared, especially if you plan to seek financing. Take along pay stubs, your credit report and at least two forms of identification as you visit dealerships so you can get the process started if you should happen to find the right vehicle.

When you browse used cars as a first-time buyer, all the choices and details of the purchasing process can be daunting. However, when you take the time to prepare, plan and become informed, buying your first car can be an enjoyable experience.

There are an abundance of options when it comes to purchasing used cars, so the importance of researching every available option is of the utmost importance. Shop for your used car with confidence, knowing no stone was left unturned in the purchasing process. With so many options available, it’s important to have a good idea of what it is you are looking for from the get go. This can include knowing everything from make and model all the way down to mileage and service history. Once you narrow down your search, start digging into the details that matter most.

How Important is Service History?

Due to the fact that used cars are just that – used – there will most likely have been services done on the vehicle you are purchasing. A report of previous services lets you know exactly when the last oil change was performed, for instance. If you know the specifics of what work has been done, you’ll have a better idea of how long the car in question will last. Also, there are very important services, such as brakes and a timing belt, that need to be serviced at a certain point, and a record of work done will let you know that these important services were done. Service history gives you a better idea of what you are buying. If you’re looking at a vehicle without proof of work done, it’s even more important than usual that you are dealing with a seller you trust.

Make a Decision Based on What You Find Out

The idea behind properly researching used cars before purchasing is to gain a level of certainty in knowing you are getting a reliable vehicle. No matter what your price range is, you want the assurance of knowing you are getting a vehicle that will last, and the best way to gage the value of your used car is to do the research.

Buying a used car from a dealer has a number of advantages of over getting a car from a private seller. For one thing, our reputation is on the line with every car we sell, which isn’t the case for an individual. Our business model is built on satisfying the customer, so that we get repeat business and positive word of mouth. This goodwill allows us to sell more used cars, which is our goal.

Another powerful advantage we have is convenience. Where else can you find a large selection of vehicles for sale than on a dealership lot? We carry everything from cars that are a year-old to vehicles that have been around a bit longer, giving you a variety of price points to choose from. We also offer a range of makes and models to test drive and kick the wheels a bit.

There’s a lot more, too. We offer financing packages that allow you to drive home the car of your dreams. We also are often able to provide lower interest rates than you might find on your own. Our cars have all been inspected by mechanics; they don’t go out on the lot until they have been cleaned and fixed of any mechanical issues. You won’t drive from our lot only to have the bumper fall off.

Our dealership also has a crack maintenance crew that you will be able to rely on for routine and unexpected repair jobs. You won’t have to go all over town to find a mechanic you can trust. Our shop is ready to change your oil, rotate your tires or put on a new set of brakes.

Finally, we handle all of the paperwork for your new set of wheels. We will set you up with registration and title so you don’t have to do the work yourself. When it comes to buying used cars, we are the place to go.

Buying used cars can be a great investment. Whether you’re looking for a family car, commuter car, or drive around town looking awesome car, here are some of our best tips for making the most out of your test drive.

Check Out the Parking Features

Because you’re going to occasionally have to stop the car and park it somewhere, be sure to test out the parking features. If you’re test driving a car that has parking features such as blind spot monitoring or a rear-view camera, find a place to practice parking. Taking the car for a test drive to the shopping mall to practice parallel parking and backing into a spot is great.

Make Sure Everyone Fits

If you’re in the market for a new family car, bring your kids and all their car seats, convertible seats, boosters, and whatever else they have. This will give you a good idea of how comfortably the whole family will be sitting on your next road trip.

Look for Signs of Water Damage

With used vehicles, you want to double check and see if there are any signs of water damage. For instance, in many cases you’ll be able to smell moisture in the car. Also look at the brake and gas pedals. If there is new rubber on them, this may be a sign that the car has been flooded or water damaged previously.

Make Sure It Offers A Smooth Ride

Pay close attention to how smooth the ride is. If the steering wheel shudders when you accelerate or brake, this is something to watch out for. Another red flag might be if the brakes or gas pedal are hard to press down or shake when you put your foot on them.

When buying used cars, you’ll always want to take a few out for a test drive to make sure you can comfortably drive it and feel safe doing so. These tips will help you know what to look for when taking the car out.

Buying a car, whether it is new or used takes time. Unfortunately, some people try to rush through the process. Since the average person doesn’t purchase a car that often, that person can be more prone to making mistakes. Here are several common mistakes people often make when they are looking to purchase used cars.

Neglecting to Compare Different Options

Sometimes people simply forget to look at several different car dealerships. A common myth is that all car dealerships are the same when in actuality they can vary greatly. By shopping around, you may be able to find the same car you originally liked at a better price.

Not Looking at the Vehicle History

One of the most important things you can do when you are looking for a used car is to research the vehicle’s history. Used cars mean that at least one other person has driven the car before you. The vehicle history can reveal previous car accidents or mechanical problems. Regrettably, some people neglect to look at the vehicle history of the car they purchase.

Forgoing a Mechanical Inspection

It is generally a good idea to have any used car mechanically inspected before you decide to buy the vehicle. Although an inspection can cost you some money upfront, it can save you from unwanted and expensive maintenance down the road. The last thing you would want to happen is to suddenly have a car problem shortly after your purchased it.

Declining a Test Drive

Lastly, a frequent mistake quite a few used car buyers make is declining to test-drive a car before purchasing it. Actually driving a car you are interested in is different than simply looking at one from the outside. Test-driving a car is a good chance for you to see how the vehicle handles the road.

The next time you are in the market for a used car, remember to avoid these frequent mistakes. It may save you some money in the long haul.

Congratulations on your decision to buy a new car! If this is your first foray into the world of buying used cars, then we’ve got a deal for you. Here are some of the key steps to take to get into the car you love.

Research Different Vehicles

First of all, find out what kind of car you want. Figure out what your needs are: do you need an SUV or a minivan to cart around children or pets? Or is your eye on fuel efficiency and you’re looking for a compact car to save on gas? These are things you should think about prior to purchasing a vehicle.

Test Drive a Few Different Cars

You’re probably excited to get into a new car, which is understandable. Even still, you should plan to test drive a few cars prior to making your final decision. Test drive a few to see what kind of style you like and how each one handles.

Look into Dealer Financing

While it may be possible for you to get financing on your own, most dealerships offer inhouse financing that might net you a better deal. Check with the dealership to see what your options are. Next, close on the deal. While most people prefer to complete the sale right there at the dealership, you may also have the option of having the car delivered to your home or office.

Take the Final Steps

Before driving your shiny new car off the lot, check and make sure it has gas in it. Be sure it is clean inside and out and there aren’t any scratches or scuffs you need to know about. Many people choose to take their car to a trusted mechanic to prevent issues cropping up in the near future.

Congratulations again for buying a new car. Once you’re the new proud owner of a vehicle you love, be sure to stop by the dealer regularly for scheduled maintenance and service. After all, one of the advantages to buying used cars at the dealer is ongoing commitment to your satisfaction.

Shopping for used cars isn’t always easy, but it is rewarding when done right. There are plenty of good and bad preowned cars on the market, so you have to have a strategy to make sure you’re getting the best vehicle available to you. Before you head out to all the used lots, here are some tips you should think about.

Shop in the Right Age Range

If you buy a car that was only driven for a month or two, you’ll probably end up paying a premium. Alternatively, if you buy something that’s 15 years old, there’s no telling how much longer it’s going to survive. Aim for cars that are in the sweet spot, somewhere between two and eight years old.

Understand the Generic Value

Once you see a car that seems right, you need to know what it’s generally going for before you sign any paperwork. If you don’t know what other people are paying for the same model, even if it is in good shape, you could end up paying too much. It’s best to educate yourself on all the cars you like.

Learn About Trade-In Value

You might think your old car is just a beater no one wants, but that car could still have some value. Even if you don’t get a lot of money for it, trading in an old vehicle can help reduce rates for used cars significantly. Don’t underestimate the worth of your old car.

Skip the Bells and Whistles

Lots of cars start out cheap and then end up costing too much because of all the add-ons consumers can’t help but buy. Do your best to turn down those offers so you can get the car you want at a good price.

These tips will help you stay sharp as you look at the used cars in your area. Keep your eyes on the prize and you’ll find a car that works.

We know that buying a used car is a big event in your life so we do our best to make it a rewarding experience. Used cars are a smart way to go and there isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t walk away from our lots with a great car at a great price. There are several steps to follow to make things easier on you when shopping for a new used car.

Stick To Your Budget

It can be easy to get carried away by the most expensive car on the lot. After all, cars are amazing machines, chock full of handy features and spectacular technology. They are beautiful, too. Still, spending too much on a car can stress your budget and affect other areas of your life. It is a good idea to come up with a price that you can afford and stick to it. Going over by a few hundred dollars to get what you want is probably OK, but exceeding your budget by thousands of dollars might not be.

Take a Long Test Drive

We think it is a good idea to take the car you are most interested in for a healthy drive. You should seek out different types of conditions, such as hills, curves, bumpy pavement and highways. You can then decide if you like the way the car handles. We want you to get the car you really like, because we know you will keep coming back to us.

Develop a Relationship

We aren’t just here to sell you a previously owned car. We can also help you with financing, if needed, and with service. We can help you maintain your car so that you are always safe on the road. Regularly scheduled maintenance will keep your car running smoothly. Our mechanics are qualified to fix nearly all models of used cars and to take care of any issues you have.

Used cars are still one of the great deals around. We believe that almost everyone can afford a used car, one that is reliable, dependable, stylish, safe and affordable. A quality used vehicle can fit into just about any budget, from first-time car buyers, to college students, to seniors on a fixed pension. Even if you have a lot of money, a used automobile still makes sense.

Low Initial Payment

It’s easy to get by with a low down payment on a used vehicle. There are even situations where buyers don’t have to put down anything at all. This means more money in the bank. If you are hesitating to get the car you want because of a shortage of spare cash, do not be deterred. Our finance department will work with you so you can buy the car you want.

Loans

Loans for used cars often come with a low interest rate, which means monthly payments can be affordable. Our finance department can tailor a loan to each person’s specific needs. Because vehicles are so much better nowadays, you don’t need to worry as much about having a long-term loan. A good used car can often last for five or more years.

Upkeep

It is always important to maintain a vehicle with regular appointments. Our service department will help you keep tabs on regular maintenance such as an oil change is due. We can also offer deals and discounts and notify you when your brakes are low or your windshield wiper is worn. A regular schedule of maintenance can keep your car running safely, as well as cut down on expensive and unnecessary repair bills.

In addition to the above, used cars often have much lower insurance costs, as well as lower registration and license fees. Depreciation isn’t as severe as when buying used, another positive factor for your budget.

Buying a used car is a serious financial responsibility that can impact your budget and credit rating. From making monthly payments to paying for gas, insurance and maintenance, there are many costs to consider. However, if you want to save money on a used car and potentially improve your credit rating, in-house financing may be the answer. We would like to show you several reasons why financing your car in house may be a wiser choice than obtaining a traditional loan.

Flexible Payment Options

In-house financing typically allows dealerships like ours to offer you a variety a payment options. While you may not get the lowest interest rate possible, this kind of financing, where you pay the dealership directly, can help you get a monthly payment that is generally less costly than you might get from a traditional loan. This can help you meet the monthly cost steadily, and payments that are made on time can improve your credit score over time.

Credit Score Improvement

If you have a fair credit score or have only just begun to build your credit, in-house financing can jump-start your score after you make the first few payments. Even a few points can make a difference in qualifying for major purchases, especially if you are on the cusp of fair and good credit. If you are building your credit, a higher score may eventually improve your job prospects and rental opportunities.

An Open Door to Future Good Credit

Using in-house financing to buy a used car can be the first step in establishing or rebuilding your credit. Being responsible with payments will reflect on your credit score and put you back on the road to financial wellness. This can be especially helpful if you are taking other steps to repairing your credit, such as paying off older debt.

In-house financing offers you many financial advantages if you are shopping for a used car. From helping you build credit from scratch to improving your score, you may be surprised at what it can do for you.